January 30, 2026
RED FM News Desk
The Federal Court of Appeal has overturned a lower court’s ruling, granting the federal government the authority to maintain its ban on single-use plastics. The decision marks a significant legal victory for Ottawa’s environmental agenda.
The legal battle began following a 2023 Federal Court decision which argued that the government had overstepped its jurisdiction by labeling all “plastic manufactured items” as toxic. However, in a unanimous ruling released today, a three-judge panel determined that the government’s decision to list these items as toxic was “reasonable” and within its regulatory powers.
The federal government has utilized this toxic designation to prohibit the manufacturing and importation of six specific types of single-use plastics. These include plastic straws, grocery bags, stir sticks, and the six-pack rings commonly used for soda and beer cans. Officials stated these specific items were targeted because they are among the most prevalent forms of litter found in the environment and have readily available eco-friendly alternatives.
Furthermore, the Federal Court of Appeal ruled that the government was within its rights to decline convening a review board to reassess the environmental risks of plastics. By validating the government’s approach, the court has provided strong legal backing for ongoing efforts to reduce plastic waste across the country.
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